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Review

2008
Lincoln
Navigator Review

A luxury SUV with flashy styling but poor performance.

Reviewed by Automotive on
12/20/2008

Overview

The third generation of the Lincoln Navigator was launched for the 2007 model year, so little has changed with the introduction of the 2008 model. It was the first SUV under the Lincoln marque and has been in production since 1998. Based on the same platform as the Ford Expedition and sharing mechanical and other equipment, the Lincoln Navigator is the upscale version. Its unique style and high-quality materials quickly and easily differentiate the 2008 Lincoln Navigator from the Ford version.

The Range

What's New

The launch of the 2008 Lincoln Navigator saw a reduction in the trim lines. Instead of having the option to choose between the base and Ultimate trim, both were combined into one base trim level. As such, features like heated and cooled front seats, an upgraded surround-sound audio system, genuine wood trim, and a power-folding third row of seats that were optional have now been included as standard features for the base level. A rear-view camera has been added to the optional features list. Drivers can still choose between rear drive and four-wheel drive.

Exterior

At just over 17 feet long, the 2008 Lincoln Navigator is the largest vehicle in the 2008 model lineup for Lincoln. Three new exterior colors are offered, but the rest of the exterior remained the same after the major overhaul for the new generation introduced for the 2007 model. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard, while 20-inch chrome wheels and a sunroof are optional extras.

Interior

The interior of the 2008 Lincoln Navigator is packed with comfort and convenience features. Plush leather upholstery and genuine wood trim add to the luxury of the interior finish. Adjustable pedals, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and parking sensors allow for comfortable driving. A rear-seat climate control system and second row center console ensure that all passengers are comfortable. Additional options include a rear-seat entertainment system, a navigation system, upgraded leather upholstery, and power-folding running boards to ease entry and exit.

The size ensures that all passengers have plenty of room, even those in the third row of seating. To boost passenger capacity to eight, an optional 40/20/40 split bench is available for the second row instead of the two captain’s chairs and center console. The power folding third row makes accessing and increasing the cargo space simple.

Performance & Handling

The 5.8-liter V-8 found within the 2008 Lincoln Navigator produces 300 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. It is coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission and can be found with rear- or all-wheel-drive systems. With a four-wheel independent suspension, the ride is smooth, but body lean when cornering can be significant. Although this is a large vehicle, the 2008 Lincoln Navigator is surprisingly agile and handles well.

The engine is responsive, but the size and weight of the 2008 Lincoln Navigator do affect acceleration and the gas mileage. It can be slower than competitors when passing. The engine and road noise is muted within the cabin making it a very quiet ride. The rear-wheel-drive version of the 2008 Lincoln Navigator has a maximum towing capacity of about 8950 pounds.

Safety

The 2008 Lincoln Navigator is fully equipped with safety equipment as standard. Included are anti-lock brakes, stability control with a rollover sensor, traction control, front side seat-mounted airbags, and side curtain airbags for all three rows of seating. In government crash tests, the 2008 Lincoln Navigator received perfect scores for the protection of front seat passengers during head-on collisions. It also performed very well during side impact crash testing.